Palatine is a large, suburban village located about 35 miles northwest of Chicago. Offering a direct line into the city via Metrarail service, it’s a popular home base for Chicago-area commuters; the exceptional public schools and low crime rate also make the area a great choice for families.

The center of town around the intersection of Palatine Road and Plum Grove Road is alive with activity, hosting a collective of specialty shops, coffeehouses, restaurants, and other popular hangouts. Grab a coffee at Christies on your way to the station in the morning, stop into Schnell’s for dinner and a drink in the evening, or swing by Mac’s On Slade to see a band play on the weekend.

Harper College sits on the south end of town, serving thousands of students from around the region. The local rental market includes everything from budget-friendly apartments to upscale condos and houses, serving the needs of Palatine’s diverse population.